Detroit · DTW · Question

How to Get from DTW to Downtown Detroit

Expert answer updated for 2026, with official sources and links to detailed guides.

There are several ways to travel between Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) and downtown Detroit, ranging from budget-friendly public transit to door-to-door private cars.

All Transportation Options

  • SMART bus — routes to downtown Detroit and suburbs
  • Ride-share & taxi — Ground Level of each terminal
  • Rental cars — in-terminal counters at McNamara, via shuttle from North

Cheapest to Most Expensive

  • Public transit: $2–15 — Slowest but cheapest
  • Shared ride-share (UberX/Lyft): $15–40 — Good balance of cost and convenience
  • Taxi: $25–60+ — Fixed rates may be available to city center
  • Private car: $50–100+ — Most comfortable, door-to-door

For the complete transportation breakdown, see our DTW ground transportation guide. For driving directions, use the interactive map on our DTW airport guide.